REMEMBRANCE DAY 2026

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2026

Thank you for all your contributions. 

UPDATED LIST OF OUR DEAR DEPARTED COLLEAGUES

Please check and post a comment if any amendments are required, especially if you can fill the blanks.

REMEMBRANCE DAY - MAY 30th 2026

REMEMBRANCE DAY - MAY 30th 2026- FINAL

Added on 1st June 2026

This appeared as a comment from ND, and I think it is a fitting way to conclude Remembrance Day 2026 posts on our Blog.

"We are coming to the end of our month for remembrance. Our grateful thanks to all who joined in to remember. We always remember our friends throughout the year and pay our tribute to those who have departed this world. The blog is our place to meet and greet. The reunions in Colombo and London keep us together.
Our faculty years are a distant memory now, but one we can never forget. I hope we will stay in touch with the many portals and forums available".

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was really good to see the number of contributions by colleagues, and my thanks to all of you who commented, and not forgetting the silent majority who accessed our Blog but did not post a comment. I hope you like this video, which I have produced by editing the one I did for 2025 (music and images). It has been updated and modified suitably.- Mahendra "Speedy" Gonsalkorale.

Please continue to send comments as a mark of appreciation for our dear departed colleagues.  I am posting this final one before the 30th, as I won't be able to do it on the day because I shall be away and unable to access my computer.

I am adding the video we did for the 2019 RM with lyrics by Rohini Anandarajah. This was one of  the best in the series.

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2026 (2)

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2026 (2)

Suri Amarasekera

We all have special treasures
That in memory transcends
Those we hold especially dear
Are those of our old and cherished friends.

 

As I recall the friendships
That have stood the test of time,
Today- tomorrow - forever
I'm so thankful they were mine. 

It's hard to believe that 65 of our dear batch mates have departed from us. All of us have many treasured memories of them. We naturally had closer associations with some than others, and kept in touch with them over the years. I have shared my precious memories of many of them in our Batch Blog as and when they departed. To avoid repetition, I will limit my recollections to a few. 

Russell Paul

Was one of the cleverest boys in our batch. His most endearing quality was his genuine concern and caring for his batchmates. I recall how he would often stop his own studies to take time to explain a tricky point to us "lesser mortals" But never did he act superior.

His beloved life partner Dawne fondly nick named " Mother Lanka" for her statuesque figure, and Rapunzel like long hair was a perfect match for Russell. 

Suren Iyer

Was a fun- filled package of energy and laughter, and a popular boy in our batch. I remember him dancing nonstop at our 50th Anniversary Batch Reunion at Jetwing Negombo in 2017. The most poignant memory I have of Suren is how he used to carry a photograph of his older sister Sita (First batch Peradeniya), who succumbed to Ulcerative Colitis, in his wallet, and show it to us, saying it was his girlfriend.

Ranjith Kuruppu

Being another "K" we were always in the same group for Clinicals. Ranjith had a lovely sense of humour and was always ready to join in any fun. I have the vivid recollection of Ranjith performing a sensuous " Dance of the Seven Veils" at our 30th Anniversary Batch Reunion in 1997, at Coral Gardens Hikkaduwa, mesmerising everyone and having the audience guessing at his identity!

Kamini Gunawardane

Was the personification of being a " Lady." Even the naughtiest boy would not crack off colour jokes in her presence. I was always close to Kamini through our activities in the SCM, and I was delighted to have her as my Co-House Officer during our internship with Dr E.V. Pieris way back in 1968. I'm so glad that our daughters became close friends while studying together as batchmates in an IT degree course. We were able to meet several times a year at functions at their faculty.

Priya Goonaratne

Was a dear and close friend throughout student days and beyond. We were both enthusiastic Table Tennis players and had the privilege of representing Sri Lanka at an International University Table Tennis tournament in 1964. Priya was a valued and enthusiastic member of the organising committee of several Batch Reunions. I am full of admiration for the way Priya met the challenge of her terminal illness with courage and cheerfulness. setting a shining example for us. 

Zita Subasinghe

I cannot possibly write about departed batchmates without referring to Zita, who I consider a dear, dear sister from another mother. We " clicked" from the very first day we met in the Block, being " Body Partners" Our friendship stood the test of time, and we remained in close touch. The fact that Zita was my son's godmother and, later, the attesting witness at his wedding bears witness to our closeness. It was a delight to have her as a fellow consultant at J Pura hospital, even for a short time. I was immensely proud of her achievements - pioneering Laser surgery in Opthalmology, and being elected the President of the College of Ophthalmology of Sri Lanka. 

Her gift of creative writing was an amazing skill. She always delighted me with personalised poems on birthdays. I vividly recall how Dr Misso (with whom we did our first surgical appointment) laughed out loud at Zita's poem of farewell at the end of the appointment, "Not much luck with the diathermy, anaey" When the assistant burnt poor Gane! " 

She was referring to Dr Ganeshanathan, the SHO, who later qualified as a thoracic surgeon. I treasure her book of poems, which I keep by my bedside. The courage and cheerfulness with which Zita faced her terminal illness are an inspiration to us all and bear witness to her strength of character. I was fortunate to be able to message her daily and receive responses up to the last month of her life, until she was unable to read and reply. Her daughter Nisha used to read them to her even then. 

V Ganesan

Is another batchmate who kindles many fond memories. I used to call him "Peter Pan " because while all of us seemed to be showing signs of ageing, Ganesh continued to preserve his youthful good looks. He was always impeccably groomed. In Black July in 1983, when his Surgery in Horana was burnt down, he was shattered. But like a Phoenix he rose from the ashes, having in his genle heart to forgive the people who hurt him. He went back to Horana to resume his practice - a courageous act indeed.  

I recall him in a pink shirt,  lustily singing popular Sinhala songs all the way to Cinnamon Lodge Habarana at our Batch Reunion in 2007.

In Ganesh, I saw a perfect human being, loving, forgiving, caring and compassionate, who left an indelible impact on our lives. I had the privilege of getting to know his daughter, Anjalee, when she assumed duties at J Pura hospital. I saw in her the same wonderful qualities as her father, whom she had obviously taken as a role model. 

J C Fernando

Iconic Royalist, Outstanding Sportsman, Compassionate Doctor, and Loyal Friend. His unfailing courtesy, quick sense of humour, and concern for others endeared him to all, making him one of the most popular boys in the batch. He could laugh at himself and took the teasing about his dark complexion good-naturedly. J C was the live wire at any party, armed with his guitar and pleasing voice, he would lead the singing, often singing"naughty" versions of popular old songs. He loved to dance and took on the task of coaching us novices on the dance floor. I remember him dancing, balancing a whiskey tumbler on his head! 

JC was responsible for giving several female batchmates nicknames.

Pocket edition (Rohini A)
Manel Massive (Manel Matthew)
K - usuma (Kusuma)
Mother Lanka (Dawne)
Brat of the Batch (myself ). 

I am eternally grateful for all the support JC gave me when I had a THR in 2018. It's mainly due to his encouragement and advice that I got back to walking unaided, driving and even swimming in 6 weeks after surgery. 

Tragedy struck in January 2000, when JC suffered a stroke, leaving him with left-sided paralysis and dysphasia. It was heartbreaking to see him so incapacitated. My husband, Mahendra, and I visited him every Saturday till the COVID pandemic in 2001 curtailed our regular visits. During this time, JC responded to music, joining Mahendra in singing old favourites like Bernadine, with perfect recall of the tune and words, but, to our utter disappointment, did not progress to clear speech. Sura was a model wife, caring for JC, doing everything possible to keep him comfortable.

Lucky Abeygunawardane

Lucky was one of the first boys I got to know in the batch, being assigned to the same cadaver for dissection, and having been told by my older brother to look out for him (Aiya had worked with Lucky as a casual bank employee while waiting to enter med school). He told me that Lucky was a  "decent chap", as indeed he proved to be. Lucky was away from Sri Lanka for many years, engaged in his work with the WHO, and it was great to reconnect with him upon his return. I remember he was one of the first batchmates I contacted when I got the bright idea to organise a Batch Reunion in 1988. It was an uphill task as we did not know where most of our batchmates were - here in Sri Lanka or abroad, nor did we have any contact numbers or places of work. In addition, most of the females had changed their names. Lucky cheerfully chipped in and we were able to have the first reunion in Sri Lanka at the Holiday Inn. Since then, we have had wonderful reunions, Lucky being a key member of the organising committee. My most vivid recollection of Lucky is from when he took part in a skit at the SLMA Doctor's Concert, dressed as a woman. I couldn't recognise him at first! I remember Mangala telling me that Lucky was very particular about having every detail correct, including the long pink fingernails. We owe Lucky an eternal debt of gratitude for being the Creator and Sustainer of our Batch Blog, which has kept us in touch with each other over the years.

Lareef Idroos

Was one of the few batchmates I knew before I entered Medical College. I recall attending several Royal Thomian encounters and watching Lareef capture wickets with his brilliant bowling. 

Lareef was a friendly chap and was equally popular with the boys and girls in our batch. I remember him as an excellent Ballroom dancer, and teaching us novices to do the Cha Cha seemed to be one of his goals. I vividly recall being coached on the King George's Hall dance floor. Lareef had his own version, which he called  " off beat Cha Cha", dipping deeply down on the back step. 

I remember him driving his gleaming Benz to College on some days. He did 6 months of his internship at the Castle Street Hospital for women, and he actually hit the Kelani Valley train at the unprotected rail crossing near the hospital. Thank God he escaped with no injuries and only minimal damage to his car. He was heard to comment, " I wondered what the bump was! " 

It was a delight to meet Lareef and his charming wife Nabila at several Batch Reunions. I was so proud to have him as a Resource Person at the annual Scientific Sessions of the SLMA in 2006, when I was the President.

Lareef acquired a luxury apartment close to J Pura hospital where I worked, so I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting him and entertaining Lareef and Nabila on several occasions when they visited Sri Lanka. 

I must express my heartfelt gratitude to Lama, who enabled us to get copies of the Student Signature Card Photographs printed in the Souvenir of the Ruby Anniversary of our graduation in 2007, using his authority as Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Colombo. I keep my copy within easy reach and often look at the photos of my friends, and precious memories come flooding back. 

REMEMBRANCE DAY 30th MAY 2026 (1)

REMEMBRANCE DAY 30th MAY 2026- (1)

Just to remind you that the special day, when each year we recall with fondness and gratitude, our dear departed colleagues, will be with us soon.

Updated on May 11th. with contributions from (a) Sanath Lamabadusuriya, (b) Nihal Amarasekera, (c) Kumar Gunawardane, (d) Srianee Dias, (e) Mahendra Gonsalkorale

Please send your contributions to me by email or post a comment on this post, and I shall add them to it, so it grows incrementally rather than posting a separate post for each contributor.

I trust this meets with your approval.

Mahendra "Speedy" Gonsalkorale. Blog Admin.

Departed list: updated 01.04.2026

1.        S.R. (Sunil) de Silva
2.       A.R.K. (Russel) Paul 1990
3.       Dawne de Silva Paul 1990
4.       Bernard Randeniya
5.       Niriella Chandrasiri
6.       V. Ganeson
7.       L.G.D.K. (Irwin) Herath
8.       V.Kunasingham
9.       B.L. Perera
10.    B. Somasunderam
11.    N.C.D.M. Gunasekara
12.    K.Sunderampillai
13.    Tudor Wickramarachchi
14.    K.N. (Kiththa) Wimalaratne
15.    Anna Ponnambalam Sathiagnanan
16.    A. Satchitananda
17.    N. Sivakumar
18.    T.A. Dayaratne
19.    Sidath Jayanetti
20.    N. Balakumar
21.    Kamali Nimalasuriya de Silva 14.4.2013
22.    K. Sri Kantha – 15.9.13
23.    P. Lucien Perera – 14.6.14
24.    Priya (Gunaratna) de Silva – 8.10.14
25.    Arul (Sivaguru) Balasubramaniam – 15.10.14
26.    W. Punsiri Fernando – 15.11.14
27.    W. Rajasooriyar – 6.1.15
28.    M.P.C. Jaimon – 26.3.15
29.    S. Vedavanam – 1.7.15
30.    Farouk Mahmoud – 27.11.16
31.    Janaka (JG) Wijetunga – 13.03.17
32.    Manohari Navaratnarajah Shanmuganathan – 22.03.17
33.    D. B. Mahendra Collure – 31.05.17
34.    Suren Iyer – 13.10.17
35.    Sardha Jayatilake Wijeratne (Passed away 3 years ago)
36.    S. Sarvananda – 26.05.18
37.   Sue Ratnavel Gunsegaram - 16.7.2018
38.   Boyd Tilak  (Chula)  Batuwitage  - 10.12.2018
39.   Ranjit Kuruppu  9.4. 2019
40.   C.D. (Desmond) Gunatilake  2.6.2019
41.   Razaque Ahamat  7.7.2019
42.   H.N.Wickremasinghe  8.11.2019
43.  Kamini (Goonewardena) Ferdinando 31.1.2021 
44. Lucky Weerasooriya jan 2022
45. Zita Perera Subasinghe 5.10.2022
46. V.P.H Rajapakse 15.10.2022
47. Mangalam Sabaratnam Krishnadasan 22.12.2022
48. Cecil Saverimuttu 26.1.2023
49. J. C. Fernando 18.04.2023
50. Navam Chinniah 03.082023
51. Philomena P Thiraviam 6.9.2023
52 Subramanium, Indrani Anthonypillai Oct 2023
53. Asoka Wijeyekoon Dec 22nd,2023
54. Sriani Basnayake Dissanayake 15.02.2024
55. R Wickremaskeran 23.4.2024
56. Bertram Nanayakkara 24.05.2024
57. Gwendoline (Perera) Herath 28.06.2024
58. Primrose (Jayasinghe) Wijeyewardhena 11.08.2024
59. Rita M G Silva (Alwis) Nov 2024
60. Lakshman Abeyagunawardene. 14.12.2024
61. Revelion (Revo) Drahaman 20.12.2024
62. Raveendra (Ravi) Nadaraja. 19.05.2025
63. Lareef Idroos. 01.09.2025
64. Padmini (Pathmani) Goonewardena August 2025
65. Kumar Balachandra. January 2026

Memories from colleagues.

(a) From Sanath Lamabadusuriya

(1) Lucky Weerasooriya , DoB 26th March 1940, DoD 15th January 2022
Lucky's younger brother, Srilal, who was the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, invited me to the ceremony when Lucky's ashes were interred at their family burial spot at Kanatte. His three sons were also present and I was invited to deliver a short speech as well.

In 1989, when I was on a family holiday in the US, we visited Lucky at his beautiful home in Orlando Florida. His house was adjacent to a creek and we went boating as well. Later, I caught some crabs, and Lucky's wife, Ruwani,prepared an excellent dinner consisting of string hoppers and crab curry. When we were leaving, I was given a visitor's book to make an entry. I noticed that the last entry had been made by Dr Alahendra (few batches our senior), and he and his wife were killed in a RTA when they were driving back home from Lucky's residence. With some trepidation , I wrote on a fresh page, as we were driving back to the airport soon after!

(2) Russel Paul

Russell Paul was two years my senior at RC, but we were in the same batch in Medical School. He hailed from a very illustrious family; his father was the Professor of Electrical Engineering at Peradeniya University, as well as the Dean and acting Vice-Chancellor. Russell had two younger brothers, Hillary and Keith, both of whom were excellent sportsmen. Hillary excelled in athletics (Hop, Step, and Jump and the Long Jump while Keith captained the Rugby team. He had a sister as well, who was kidnapped and raped at the Eye Hospital Junction, by a notorious thug named Gonawela Sunil. Although he was prosecuted and jailed, he was given a presidential pardon by President JRJ.

Russell excelled at the Freshers' meet in athletics, winning a few events when we entered the University. As mentioned by me earlier, we were co-interne House Officers with Professor K Rajasuriya, and we were roommates at the Main Quarters for one year. I remember him making ham out of a pork shop for Christmas in 1967.

Later, he decided to emigrate to the US. When I asked him why he was doing so, he replied that although his father was a senior academic and they lived in an apartment on Duplication Road, he did not wish for that to happen to him as well, even though Dawn was quite affluent. Later, whenever he visited Sri Lanka, we used to meet. They had a daughter and a son. Unfortunately, the daughter was brain-damaged at birth and developed Hyperactive Attention Deficit Disorder (HADD). Russell specialised in GI oncology and worked in Philadelphia. I was planning to visit them during our trip to the US, but unfortunately could not accomplish it. I spoke to him last over the phone from Indra Anandasabhapathy's house in Staten Island New York.

Later, Dawn had developed ankylosing spondylitis and had been confined to bed. They had employed a housemaid to look after the daughter. Unfortunately, after the maid passed away, Russell was saddled with the problem of looking after two differently abled family members. When he could not provide proper care any more, he decided to end it all by committing three murders and a suicide. After setting up IV infusions, he injected a lethal drug. Knowing Russell, he would have calculated the lethal dose up to the second decimal point. The coroner did not publicise the name of the drug, thinking that others might get ideas.

Manik de Silva, the journalist, wrote a beautiful editorial headlined " Count Your Blessings", implying that the tragedy may not have happened if they had not emigrated, because of the extended family support found locally.

(b) Nihal D Amerasekera- Remembrance 2026

As I look back on my life and remember the friends we have lost, I turn to the wisdom of Robert Laurence Binyon and the poignant lines he wrote for those who fell in the First World War:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them. 

The 30th of May has become a special day in our calendar. It is set aside to remember our friends who entered the Faculty of Medicine, Colombo, in 1962 and who are no longer with us. It is a time for reflection — to cherish the wonderful years we shared, to honour their memory, and to celebrate their lives with gratitude for the time we were privileged to have together.

I am often overwhelmed with nostalgia as I think back to our days at the Faculty. I remember, with a deep sense of loss, a kinder and gentler world that seemed to fade as we left medical school. Most painful of all has been losing the friends who meant so much to me. Life carried us forward — onto the relentless treadmill of building careers and raising families. Now, at the close of my working life, I still long for those days, though more than fifty years have passed. We were such an integral part of the Faculty and the General Hospital; perhaps our voices and laughter still echo in the corridors of those hallowed halls.

The ache of losing friends never truly disappears. Friendships are among life’s richest blessings, and those formed and strengthened in youth are especially precious and enduring. The moments we shared remain vivid and treasured in our hearts.

At this time, we also think of the spouses and families of our departed friends. They have borne the profound sorrow of loss and the difficult journey of learning to live without their loved ones. We deeply admire their strength and are grateful for their continued presence at our gatherings and reunions. They remain an integral part of our community and will always be warmly welcomed.

On this day of remembrance, we also honour our teachers at the Faculty and our clinical tutors at the General Hospital, Colombo. With generosity and dedication, they guided us in the demanding art of diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care. We were especially fortunate to have Professor O. E. R. Abhayaratne as our Dean — an exceptional teacher, a selfless mentor, and a fatherly presence to us all.

There were about 160 students in our 1962 batch. I knew some better than others. With some of them I formed deep bonds and lifelong friendships. When those friends passed on, they left behind a void that can never truly be filled. On this Remembrance Day, I would like to honour and cherish their memory.

Bernard Randeniya

As a young medical student with his cherubic smile, he was funny, gregarious and an incorrigible flirt. His pranks and foibles can fill a book. Always happy, he saw the world through rose-tinted glasses. I visited him where he worked as DMO-Rattota (he mined for gemstones), MOH-Hanguranketa (he went hunting for wild boar), MS-Kalutara (had moonlight parties by the river) and Director- Cancer Hospital Maharagama (holding lavish dinner parties). He had unique gifts as a host and a matchless gift for laughter. Wherever he was Bernard enjoyed good food, generous helpings of the amber nectar and loved a jolly good sing-song. His love of life, amiable kindness and generosity always stood out.

Bernard was held in high esteem in the Health Service as one of its most colourful and successful managers. He led from the front and inspired all those who worked with him. His great professionalism was accompanied by an infectious enthusiasm for life and mischievous sense of humour. He used his charm and skills of persuasion to obtain expensive equipment for the Cancer Institute Maharagama to benefit the many patients who came for treatment. Despite his achievements he was also a modest man, protective of his privacy, embarrassed by praise and with a deep aversion for publicity.

In early 1999 when we met up in Colombo, he gave me the sad news of his illness which proved terminal. I kept in touch with him and admire the courage which he showed until the very end. He passed away with great dignity in November 1999 at the age of 58 years. Bernard was a devout Catholic . His faith gave him great comfort during his final illness.

His cheeky grin and infectious laugh are precious memories for us all. Bernard was my best friend and I miss him dearly. He was far too young to leave us.

H.N.Wickramasinghe

I was surprised and delighted to see him in the Paediatric ward in Kurunegala to start his internship in June 1967. For the next 6 months, we were to save lives together. I couldn’t have asked for a better colleague. He was conscientious, caring and was a kind doctor. I remember it so well on our first payday when we walked to the Kurunegala Rest House. We sat in its spacious verandah to enjoy several pints of beer.

He was great company and specially so after a few glasses of the amber nectar. HN never indulged in hurtful gossip, recrimination or sniping and had a good word for everyone. His commitment, honesty and dignity touched all those with whom he worked. It must also be said, HN never stood for any nonsense and spoke his mind.

Although he was a big burly lad, HN was a ‘softy’ within. I recall with nostalgia our farewell party after completing internship. There were many sad goodbyes. On that fateful day as he left us HN got so very emotional and tearful.

HN became a successful General Practitioner in Hanwella.

The last time I met HN was around 2004.  R.S Jayatilleke invited a few batch-mates to his house for drinks and dinner. HN was broader than before, but he had a full head of curly hair lightly greying at the edges. He was his usual self, full of wit and humour.  We reminisced our time together in Kurunegala.

HN passed away peacefully in November 2019 after a brief illness. I do miss him despite the years.

Sivakumar Vedavanam

We were good friends in the faculty. We became closer working together In the Blood Bank in Colombo. I recall the many evenings we drifted towards the Health Department Sports Club to put the world to right. As Medical Officer in the Blood Bank we travelled to all parts of the island collecting blood. On those trips he asked me to join him for company. We did have a jolly good time together.

He was a good friend to me when my life was in turmoil.

During those journeys he showed tremendous kindness to the PHI’s, attendants and labourers who were part of our team. They all loved him for his classless friendship and lavish hospitality.  He had retained that “Childhood innocence" of purity, wonder, and lack of cynicism.  Veda viewed the world with trust, simple joy and a belief in goodness. Those were indeed our memorable years.

He qualified in Psychiatry in the UK. I do regret my inability to connect with him in the UK as he lived just an hour’s drive away from me.

Sivakumar passed away in 2015. He will be fondly remembered as a kind, generous and a genuine friend. The planet is a poorer place without him when he has taken his rightful place in those Elysian Fields.

Razaque Ahamat

We both lived in Wattala and travelled daily by train from Hunupitiya to Maradana in carriages packed like sardines. Then we sat together at lectures, weathered the storms of the signatures and endured the hardships of those clinical appointments. During those years, what stood out was his helpful kindness, his great sense of humour and his charming, convivial nature. All through those years in the faculty he enjoyed life to the full. He joined in the many dances, Colours Night and Block Nights that brightened up our lives. Razaque was often one of the last of the stragglers to leave King George’s Hall at the break of dawn.

Razaque had many stories to tell which he related with a slight lisp which enhanced the narrative. He said, with a murky smile, he descended from the Royal family in Penang. If that was indeed fact or fiction, we will never know just like the other hilarious stories in his repertoire. Razaque brought happiness to our lives at the faculty when the atmosphere was stuffy and toxic.

Razaque arrived to our 1962 Batch Reunion in London held in 1994 wearing a Scottish Kilt with all its regalia, typical of the man.

In retirement in Dundee, Scotland he helped to liven up the Batch Blog with his witty anecdotes and amusing stories.

Razaque passed away peacefully in 2019 after a long illness bravely borne.

Zita Perera Subasinghe

After the great dispersal from Kynsey Road in 1967, it took a further 48 years to see Zita again. This time, she was with her husband, Joe. They both seemed jolly and lively.  Mahendra has kept in touch with Zita, and we all met up at Côte Brasserie off Oxford Street in London. It was 2015, and we had all retired from our professional lives. This was a remarkable bonding. There was so much closeness and intimacy despite the passage of years.

We retraced our lives since medical school. Zita achieved greatness in her chosen field of Ophthalmology but she remained ever so modest. I remember the clarity with which Zita related the story of her life, work, and family to this day. What stood out was how happy she was with her life. Zita was delightful company, always spoke kindly about people.

There were many occasions when she asked my wife and I to visit them at Southend-on -sea.  But life then was busy and got in the way. We just couldn’t make it. This we do regret very much.  Zita is one the kindest and the most genuine persons I’ve met.

Zita passed away peacefully in the United Kingdom in September 2022 after a long illness borne with courage. I still have the book of poems she wrote at the very end of her life.

Priya Gunaratna

In 1967 we met again in Kurunegala doing those arduous tasks of internship. She oozed charm and personality.  We worked together in the Children's Ward with the Paediatrician Dr Chandra de S Wijesundera (who later married our batchmate Manel Ratnavibhushana). There, I got to know Priya more closely, sharing the on-calls and other onerous tasks of a busy unit. While at work she had the great ability to remain calm and in control. 

She showed tremendous kindness, courtesy and patience towards the children in her care and also to their worried parents.  I recall Priya had great empathy for the poor, simple rural folk of the wanni who sought our help. She remained a reliable, unpretentious and hardworking colleague throughout.  The passion, integrity, and professionalism Priya showed during the internship was a beacon for us all.  She was indeed a very special person and a delightful friend to be with.

Priya passed away in Colombo in October 2014 after a long illness borne with strength, dignity, and fortitude. She touched many lives and is greatly missed.

Tudor Wickramarachi:

He was rather restless and intense as a medical student. Tudor always gave as good as he got. I also remember his exuberant personality and his zest for life. Tudor and I worked as surgical interns and endured the punishing schedule of hospital medicine together. Amidst the brief tantrums, awful puns and risqué humour, Tudor showed great empathy and tremendous kindness to his patients, staff and colleagues. He was a loyal friend but was never inhibited by sensitivity or shyness when it came to expressing his own opinion.  Although occasionally boisterous, he was mostly gregarious, genial and generous.

He did his internship in Kurunegala and lived in the House Officer’s quarters which was called ‘Ambaruk Sevana’. This was famous for its lavish parties and lively music. The songs of C.T Fernando were heard deep into the night. Whenever I hear CTF  songs it always reminds me of Tudor, singing his heart out.

I visited him when he was DMO Dambulla. Call it ‘oriental lavishness’, the bottle of amber nectar appeared before I sat down and to this day that trip remains a blissful memory of a well-lubricated evening.

When we met again in London he was much subdued now a reformed family man. I nearly fell off the chair when he refused a drink. Tudor became a respected Pathologist in Bristol.

He sadly passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in Bristol, UK in August 2016, while doing what he loved best – playing golf.  His was a life well lived but sadly taken away far too soon at the age of 66 years.

Asoka Wijeyekoon alias “Lubber”

He was one of my closest pals and I miss him dearly. We worked together in the Central Blood Bank. Meeting him even as an octogenarian, the conversation was always logical and current.  He was well-informed. He expressed his views and opinions without fear or favour and brought a good deal of lateral thought to any discussion. I sincerely hope one day we will meet again in another realm.

When I look back the memories of 50+ years, Lubber was a kind, sociable friend and a unique human being. This is not an attempt to deify him. He too had the same faults we all possess.

As in his youth Lubber was extraordinarily frank, feared no one and retained an aura of gravitas from his ‘consultant’ days. He had the remarkable ability to bring to any discussion a huge degree of intelligence derived from lateral thinking.

Around 2016 when on a visit to Thailand, I phoned him in Bangkok. He promptly booked a room in the same hotel as I did.  We enjoyed a boys’ evening out and had a grand time eating and drinking to our hearts content. The last time we met was in London at his hotel when we enjoyed a sumptuous lunch and a fine chat. It is, and will always remain, one of the great privileges of my life to have known him.  Perhaps it is au revoir and not goodbye. I know he will have a lot to say about that, too.

Asoka passed away suddenly in October 2023 on his annual visit to see his sons in London.

A.Satchithananda

Ever curious, he was cultured as he was intelligent. We played table tennis and carrom in the faculty Common Room and over cups of tea put the world to right. He later emigrated to the USA. We were both Apple Computer buffs. In those early days they were disastrously unreliable beasts. We tried hard to make sense and keep them working.

Although not a Christian he listened every Christmas to the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols sung by the Kings College Choir in Cambridge on Christmas eve, broadcast at 3pm GMT which he said was a ritual since his schooldays.

When Satchi was at the height of his fame and success as a Paediatrician in Wisconsin, he walked away from the profession due to ill health. His journey through life was filled with sadness and tragedy, but he always managed to smile and joke with his friends. I remember well his charm and intellect. We met up in an Indian Restaurant in London in the 1990s and enjoyed lunch and exchanged gifts. His present to me was a Gorecki’s 3rd Symphony, a deeply sorrowful piece of work. Understandably, the events of his painful past and his own illness had a devastating effect on his life and personality. Despite this, he maintained his dignity and composure, remaining a loyal friend to the end. He indeed stood above the common herd.

Satchy passed away in August 2011 in Florida, USA

Revelion Drahaman

I first met Revo in 1965 when we were both students at the Faculty of Medicine in Colombo. It was the Swinging Sixties. Memories of amber nectar, tall tales and late nights whizz around my head as I recall those years of long ago. Friendships were made and firmed in the canteen and common room which was the social hub of the Faculty where laughter was endemic.

Revo started his training with the first batch of students at Peradeniya and moved to Colombo on a transfer. As our surnames were nearer the beginning of the alphabet, we did most of the clinical work together. Our walks on the long corridors to every corner of the General Hospital in search of patients and knowledge is a memory that has stayed with me. This brought us closer and the friendship lasted a lifetime. By his dignity and decency, he brought honour to his school, the profession and his community. This short tribute is a testament to the caring and integrity which was evident in everything he did.

Revo was a quiet, thoughtful man and lived a remarkable life. He was ever so humble about his success and never regarded himself as someone special. Despite his privileged upbringing, he never lost the common touch. I consider myself so very fortunate to have met him in my journey through life. Revo is a gem in a world of pebbles. He has gone before us in the journey we all must take.

Revo passed away peacefully in Colombo in December 2024 after a prolonged illness bravely borne.

Lakshman Dias Abeygunawardene

I first met Lakshman in the “Block” when we were freshers at the Faculty of Medicine in Colombo in 1962. Then we both lived in Nugegoda. There were times he gave me a lift to the faculty in his Honda 50 motor-cycle. Our surnames being at the beginning of the alphabet we sat near to each other at lectures, walked the long corridors of the General Hospital together and worked in the same wards. Friendship blossomed as we did most of the demanding tasks together for the full five years.

Lakshman loved faculty life more than most and enjoyed it to the full. He was a fine billiards player. Carrom was his forte. Lakshman was one of the best players of the game and won the faculty tournament a couple of times. He was a great follower of the University cricket team and was ever present at the Sara Trophy games lending his support. Watching Rugby was another of his passions and never missed an important club game. He was always there for the Colours Night and Block Night dances at the University’s King George’s Hall, jiving the night away. Ever-present at the evening booze-ups in the faculty common room, Lakshman was there to take me home after the event. Although he enjoyed a drink Lakshman never exceeded the sensible limits he set for himself. He never smoked. With him good sense always prevailed.

I remember he was always polite and had the great ability to be calm, discreet and diplomatic. He had the skill to hide his anger so very well. Beneath his gentle demeanour, Lakshman had a steely core. He was intelligent and astute and played his cards close to his chest. Lakshman was never in a hurry to make important decisions which he did after careful thought. This stood him in good stead throughout his career and in his life.

I last met him in August 2012 when we enjoyed an Indian meal at the Cinnamon Grand recalling many of those wonderful memories of our time together. Lucky will be forever remembered for initiating the Batch Blog which is still a lively forum riding the ether.

Lucky passed away peacefully in Colombo in December 2024 after a long illness borne with characteristic resilience and determination.

J.C Fernando

JC has had a rewarding professional career. We have enjoyed his company, humanity and joie de vivre. Rarely boring or predictable, sometimes outrageous, JC was excellent company. He had tremendous enthusiasm for social events in medical school. Being a fine musician, many of us got to know JC at social functions. We sang and danced at the memorable and raucous evening booze-ups in the Men’s Common Room. My abiding memory at these events is the lithe figure of the ‘Dark Knight’ strumming his guitar, singing in graphic detail the itchy tale of “the dance of the phthirus pubis”. His signature song was “Saima cut wela” a tragic tale of a beginner’s hangover and an effective home remedy. He sang “Suranganee-ta malu genawa”, tempting fate long before they became a pair!! He capped it all with an enduring contribution to the Final year trip making the days brighter and the nights merrier.

I last met him with Lucky Abeygunawardene at the SSC club for dinner in the late 1990’s. Thereafter we exchanged the occasional email. His was a good life well lived. JC has left fond memories which will be treasured by many.

J.C passed away in Colombo in April 2023 after a long illness battled with bravery and fortitude.

S.R De Silva

Sunil came from the upper echelons of society with a strong academic background but was resolutely down to earth. This showed even in the way he dressed. He had the remarkable ability to move with equal ease with the bourgeoisie and the proletariat, a trait inherited from his illustrious uncle Colvin R de Silva. He made many friends in the faculty and by his very nature had no enemies. Sunil was soft-spoken, self-effacing and sober. His lifestyle was modest and unpretentious. He was exceptionally kind to everyone and treated all with courtesy and respect. Sunil never entertained any of that frivolous gossip which was rampant in the university.  We were all just out of our teenage years and showed our emotions easily, but not Sunil. I never saw those moments of sentimentality in him. Perhaps he masked them skilfully with his distinctive poker face.

He may have a chuckle reading this narrative, wagging his finger at me. Sunna passed away suddenly and unexpectedly after a road traffic accident in the USA in 1976.

As the lyrics of a famous song by Billy Joel says “Only the good die young”

Tilak Dayaratne 

During our faculty years, Tilak lived in Homagama. He rode his red Moto Guzzi, generating noise and elegance in equal measure. He often took me to Nugegoda, weaving through at high speed the High Level road traffic whilst I held on to my dear life. When I offered to pay him for the trip, he wanted to pay me for taking the risk.

Tilak was a sensitive and thoughtful man. He was disdainful of hypocrisy, social convention and conformity. His apparent indifference should not be confused with a lack of respect for values and beliefs. On those rare social occasions, he ignited interesting discussion and humour. Tilak detested the spotlight. To many, his life was a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, within an enigma. To those who got to know him, Tilak was charming, kind and courteous. We got on tremendously well during our days at the faculty. He was a talented artist. At an end of appointment party, I recall that indelible moment when he stood up and sang about a Dutch girl. Our hostess was from the Netherlands. I do regret not keeping in touch after the great dispersal of 1967.

Tilak passed away in 2012 in Colombo. He is now at peace, something that eluded him most of his life. May it last forever.

May he attain the Ultimate Bliss of Nirvana

Ours was the golden era of medical education in Sri Lanka. Hence, I wish to remember just one person from the faculty and another from the clinical staff to represent the many who taught us beyond the call of duty.

Prof. G. H. Cooray – His lectures were precise, authoritative, and comprehensive. Those he delivered on general pathology and tumours were especially brilliant and deeply inspiring. Though his old-fashioned demeanour kept him somewhat distant from students, he was consistently kind and helpful. Prof. Gerald Henry Cooray passed away in 1970 at the age of 62.

Dr. Darrel Weinman – His ward classes were nothing short of theatrical. He taught us to recognise clinical signs and approach diagnosis with clear, logical reasoning. Dr Weinman never subscribed to the toxic culture that often prevailed toward students. He was one of the finest teachers of our time at the GHC. He passed away in Sydney, Australia, in 2018 at the age of 89.

(c) Kumar Gunawardane - REMEMBRANCE 2026 

“Remember me in your heart,

Your thoughts and your memories
Of the  times, we loved,
The times we cried, 
The times we fought, 
The times we laughed,
For if you always think of me, 
I will never have gone” 

- Margaret Mead.

In this month of remembrance, we recall with tenderness not only those who are no more, but those who are with us, vibrant and vigorous, a reminder of our own youth and vitality. We must also remember with affection, even those who were like “ ships that pass in the night and speak to each other only in passing”, for they too were part of our band.

There is the sadness of unrequited love, too; cherished ones ascending the ancient wooden terraced steps, passing by in a cloistered car or walking gaily along the endless roofed corridors, making the heart beat faster but to no avail. I consoled myself. “She walks in beauty, like the night, of cloudless climes and starry skies”. Poetry is a powerful healer, and we mustn’t linger long in the caves of despair.

There were also instances of "The Moon and Sixpence." So busy yearning for the moon, that one never saw the sixpence at the feet.

We remember youths with hearts of gold who we wish had eternal life. No one is immortal, but they will remain in our hearts till the end of our days. The laughter, the banter, the double entendres, often expressed with a poker face; the supreme exponent being Sunna, with ‘Lubber’ ( Asoka Wijekoon) following hot on S’s heels. There were sportsmen, who we had to coax to relate their triumphs, and the Lotharios who needed little encouragement to brag of their conquests.

Some who were taken away too soon were sadly amongst the brightest and the best, but we are thankful too that many of the elite are still with us and illuminating the lives of multitudes.

We can take solace in the timeless words of 

William Wordsworth

Though nothing can bring back the hour,
Of splendour in the grass, 
of glory in the flower, 
We will grieve not, 
Rather find Strength in what remains. 

Khalil Gibran

“Ever has it been said,
Love knows not its own depth, 
Until the hour of separation “

(d) Srianee Dias

I am dedicating this to all our batch mates who have left us.  Some were close friends and others were those who greeted me while we  passed each other in the hallways.  They are all missed by someone, somewhere. We will remember them as long as we are around.

Death Is Nothing At All
- By Henry Scott-Holland

Death is nothing at all. 
It does not count. 
I have only slipped away into the next room. 
Nothing has happened. 

Everything remains exactly as it was. 
I am I, and you are you, 
and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. 
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. 

Call me by the old familiar name. 
Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. 
Put no difference into your tone. 
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. 

Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. 
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. 
Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. 

Life means all that it ever meant. 
It is the same as it ever was. 
There is absolute and unbroken continuity. 
What is this death but a negligible accident? 

Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? 
I am but waiting for you, for an interval, 
somewhere very near, 
just round the corner. 

All is well. 
Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost. 
One brief moment and all will be as it was before. 
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!

To those who are still around

These are the last few lines of a poem by Mary Oliver.

The Summer Day

Doesn’t everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do 
with your one wild and precious life?

(e) Mahendra Gonsalkorale,

I could write about so many wonderful colleagues I have had the pleasure of knowing, and indeed I have done so many times in our Blog. This year, I shall re-post one I did for that unique and exceptional person, Zita Perera Subasinghe. This is what I wrote about her in 2024.

Zita was a truly remarkable person, and it was my great fortune to have known her. If indeed there is anything after death, Zita will surely be in the best possible place.

Her courage and determination in her final illness are a lesson to all of us. She went through a lot of difficult treatments and procedures, not for her sake but for the sake of her husband Joe, and her children. She knew how much her life meant to them, and this gave her the courage to persist and endure. I was firmly convinced that she did not fear death and was prepared to leave with dignity, and in fact, she told me so. But right to the end, her thoughts were on her loved ones and not her.

Her life story is one of devotion - devotion to family, friends, patients, anyone in need and humanity in general. She was moved by the trials and tribulations of others and was always willing not just to step in and help if she could, but to do it in a sincere and loving way without expecting any personal rewards.

She firmly believed that all the good things we do to others and to ourselves must be done while we are alive. Not only did she believe in it, but she also practised it. That is typical of Zita- she practised what she preached.

Zita, we all miss you terribly. May you rest in peace

Scarlet Ribbons for her hair By Dr Nihal D Amerasekera

Scarlet Ribbons for her hair
By Dr Nihal D Amerasekera

On a dank Christmas day in England, as the stiff winter winds howl and the rain splatters the windows, I sit by the warmth of a real fire.  I look back on my life, trying to recreate that atmosphere of the tropical Christmases I enjoyed as a child. My thoughts crossed the vast oceans to reach my childhood home. The thrill and romance of childhood Christmases are steeped in nostalgia. Christmas is a magical time for children the world over. I have many childhood memories of Christmases at our ancestral home in Kegalle, where the Amerasekera clan gathered. Eating, drinking, and merry-making were the norm. For us children, receiving our presents from Santa was the best thing that happened during Christmas. I do recall with such clarity my letters to Santa and those fervent prayers to God that my wish will be granted.

There is a song that is played during this festive season about a girl’s prayer for a beautiful and charming gift. It is a special gift that would make her look prettier and more glamorous. The popular ballad was written in 1949 by Evelyn Danzig with lyrics by Jack Segal.  Reportedly, this is a fictional story, and the music was composed in 15 minutes. The song was first released by Jo Stafford in 1949. I well remember her face from the bubble gum pictures I had all those years ago. Many recorded this song, including Jim Reeves and Roy Orbison. But in Ceylon, it was the Harry Belafonte version that became a smash hit in 1956. The song is a soulful ballad called ‘Scarlet Ribbons’. It is a simple tale of miracle and faith with a happy ending. This indeed plucks at the heartstrings to evoke a strong feeling of love and sympathy. Belafonte’s performance, featuring a simple guitar accompaniment, captures the mood of the moment perfectly. His rendition is critically lauded for its sensitive, tender vocal delivery, showcasing his ability to handle ballads with intimate emotional depth. The song is frequently highlighted for its soothing quality and remains a highly rated, beloved classic in his repertoire.

I peeked in to say good-night

When I heard my child in prayer

"And for me, some scarlet ribbons

Scarlet ribbons for my hair"

All our stores were closed and shuttered

All the streets were dark and bare

In our town, no scarlet ribbons

Scarlet ribbons for her hair

Through the night my heart was aching

Just before the dawn was breaking

In our town, no scarlet ribbons

Scarlet ribbons for her hair

I peeked in and on her bed

In gay profusion lying there

Lovely ribbons, scarlet ribbons

Scarlet ribbons for her hair

If I live to be a hundred

I will never know from where

Came those lovely scarlet ribbons

Scarlet ribbons for her hair

Prayer is a universal phenomenon. It is a practice as old as history itself and spans almost all regions and religions.  Prayer is a method for communicating with the divine, expressing devotion, or seeking help. For some, prayer is making a rapport with God. For others, prayer means cultivating compassion, wisdom, and inner peace. Hence, it becomes a form of meditation and mindfulness.

My father worked for the government. Every 4 years, we had the enormous task of uprooting ourselves and moving to a new location, the so-called “Transfers”. To give my education some stability I started schooling in Nugegoda staying with my grandparents. We lived opposite the Anglican Church of SS Mary and John. Around the corner from us was St John’s School. For me it was an idyllic life. My grandparents loved me so dearly that I could get off with a lot of mischief. It was my weekly routine to attend Sunday school. There we learnt lots of children’s hymns. The teachers were ever so kind and taught us how to pray. They asked us to bring our hands together and be friends with God.  While thanking God we could ask his help and make requests.

When I was 9 years old, I was sent to boarding school. This being a Methodist School Christian worship included prayers every morning at assembly. In the boarding, we had a small Chapel for evening prayers. On the wall behind the lectern was a lovely painting by the German painter Albrecht Dürer of the Praying Hands. There is a poignant story about this painting. I was in the junior dormitory, and it was our nightly ritual to pray kneeling by our bedside before the lights were turned off. I prayed for my parents’ well-being. There were times when I prayed that Wesley beat Royal College at cricket at the next weekend. It was a frivolous request, and sadly, we were comprehensively beaten. Once I had forgotten to memorise a couple of poems for the next day, I prayed the teacher would not turn up to take the class.  I know not if that was the power of prayer, and surely enough, he did not turn up.  As a child, I did find prayer comforting and felt it was so wonderful to have an all-powerful person to guide and help me.

The song is frequently associated with Christmas, but its message of wonder and care is often timeless. Although the old adage suggests every story has a moral, this is not strictly true. Personally, for me, it is a simple story that depicts an amazing childhood moment, a kid’s innocence and the depth of parental love. As an octogenarian, I still pray and get enormous comfort from it. The focus of my prayers is now different from when I was a child. It is now more a form of meditation and mindfulness. Prayer can reduce stress, anxiety, and negative emotions. This indeed makes me feel calm and at peace.

I am deeply grateful for my Christian upbringing. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to my parents, grandparents, and the school for instilling in me the ability to distinguish right from wrong and for guiding me to lead a principled life. I am also profoundly appreciative of what I have learned from Buddhism, which has greatly contributed to my sense of inner peace and understanding of the world. While I have not always lived up to these values, I remain guided by my conscience, which continues to serve as my moral compass in striving to do what is right.